Over 500 persons were killed and 10 communities destroyed in the recent crisis in Agatu Local Government Area of Benue State, the immediate past Senate President, Senator David Mark, said.
Mark, in a statement by his media aide, Paul Mumeh, described the attack as ‘barbaric, wicked and inhuman.’
“I’m shocked beyond words at the extent of destruction in Agatu. It is unbelievable, unimaginable. Nothing whatsoever justifies this brazen act of wickedness meted out to the people of Agatu. My heart bleeds,” he said.
Mark, who was on assessment tour of the communities alongside some members of the national and state assemblies from his constituency, urged security operatives to ensure that the perpetrators are brought to book.
He said that the attacks could not have occurred by accident. He said he suspected an orchestrated genocide against the people of Agatu.
He told the survivors of the attacks to remain calm and law abiding no matter the level of provocation, just as he assured that the government would intervene to bring succour to them.
Mark advised the people to take advantage of the proposed public hearing by the joint Senate committee on the crisis to bring the matter to public domain and seek redress.
